Healthy Baked Feta Orzo

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean complicated dinners or takeout stress. Healthy Baked Feta Orzo is the ultimate fuss-free meal—quick to prepare, full of vibrant vegetables, and luxuriously creamy without any complicated sauces. Roasted feta melts into a smooth, tangy coating for tender orzo pasta, while fresh asparagus, spinach, and tomatoes bring color, texture, and nutrients. It’s one of those recipes that works perfectly for dinner and tastes even better as leftovers the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Orzo

• Quick weeknight dinner – Ready in 30–40 minutes
• One-pan roasting – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
• Fresh and vibrant – Packed with vegetables like asparagus, tomatoes, and spinach
• Creamy comfort – Feta and mascarpone create a smooth, indulgent sauce
• Vegetarian-friendly – A satisfying meatless main course

Ingredients

For the Roasted Base

• Olive oil (3 tbsp) – Helps roast vegetables and feta to perfection
• Feta cheese (1 block) – Tangy, creamy, and melts beautifully
• Cherry tomatoes (10 oz, halved) – Sweet, juicy, and roast to intensify flavor
• Asparagus (7 oz, cut into 1-inch pieces) – Adds crunch and vibrant color

For the Orzo

• Orzo pasta (2 cups) – Cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy roasted feta sauce

For the Finishing Touches

• Fresh basil (0.5 oz, finely chopped) – Bright herbal flavor
• Fresh chives (2 tbsp) – Mild oniony note
• Mascarpone cheese (2 tbsp, heaped) – Adds luxurious creaminess
• Baby spinach (3.5 oz, roughly chopped) – Nutrient-rich green that wilts into the sauce
• Salt and black pepper – To taste

How to Make Healthy Baked Feta Orzo

Step 1: Roast the Feta

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place a block of feta in the center of a large oven-safe pan and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast for 8 minutes until it starts to soften.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Continue Roasting

Remove the pan and scatter the cherry tomatoes and asparagus around the feta. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of black pepper. Return to the oven for 12–15 minutes, until the feta is golden at the edges and soft in the center, and the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

While the feta and vegetables roast, cook the orzo in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain over a bowl to reserve some starchy water, which will help create a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Mix and Mash

Mash the roasted feta with a fork until smooth. Stir in the cooked orzo, combining thoroughly. Add the spinach and ½ cup of reserved starchy water, stirring until the spinach wilts and a smooth, creamy sauce forms. Add more reserved water if necessary to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Stir in fresh basil, chives, and mascarpone cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting pasta dish.

Tips for Success

• Let feta sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking for even melting
• Watch orzo closely to avoid overcooking; it should be al dente
• Use starchy pasta water to create a creamy sauce without extra cream
• Mix mascarpone while pasta is still hot to ensure a smooth, silky finish

Equipment Needed

• Large oven-safe pan or baking dish
• Large pot for cooking orzo
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon or fork for mashing feta

Recipe Variations

• Protein boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein
• Vegetable swaps – Replace asparagus with broccoli, zucchini, or green beans
• Cheese alternative – Use goat cheese or Danish blue for a different flavor profile
• Dairy-free option – Replace mascarpone with a creamy plant-based alternative

Serving Suggestions

Serve baked feta orzo with a simple Greek salad, garlic-roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s satisfying enough to enjoy on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep the vegetables and herbs the day before. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze baked feta orzo?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the roasted feta and vegetables separately. Add cooked orzo when reheating.

What kind of feta should I use?
Choose Greek or Bulgarian feta in a block form, preferably stored in brine for creaminess.

Can I use another pasta?
Small pasta shapes like shells, stelline, or broken angel hair can be substituted. Cooking times may vary.

How do I prevent mushy orzo?
Check the pasta 2–3 minutes before the package directions suggest and rinse with reserved starchy water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Final Thoughts

Healthy Baked Feta Orzo is the perfect weeknight solution: simple, fresh, creamy, and loaded with flavor. From roasted feta to tender orzo and vibrant vegetables, this dish is comforting, fuss-free, and easy to customize. Make it a staple in your rotation, enjoy it fresh, or savor leftovers for a quick lunch—it’s that versatile and delicious.

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